MERU, Kenya — The Kenya Women Parliamentary Association (KEWOPA) has urged security agencies to fast-track investigations and ensure full accountability following the brutal attack of a woman in Laare, Meru County, during a traditional circumcision procession.
The incident, reported on December 1, 2025, has reignited national outrage over rising cases of sexual and gender-based violence (SGBV) in the region.
In a strongly worded statement, KEWOPA said that despite the arrest of six suspects, justice must be comprehensive, decisive, and urgent. The association stressed that all remaining perpetrators must be identified, arrested, and prosecuted without delay.
“The survivor must receive comprehensive, dignified, and uninterrupted medical and psychosocial support. Her privacy, safety, and well-being must be protected throughout. Every person responsible for planning, participating in, or enabling this assault must face the full force of the law,” KEWOPA Chairperson Leah Sankaire said.
The attack occurred at around 4:00 am, according to Laare Police Commander Jared Marando, who confirmed that officers responded immediately after a resident reported the assault. “Police officers responded immediately and found the gang in action. Three suspects were arrested at the scene, but many of them managed to escape. The lady was rescued and escorted to Nyambene Hospital, where she was treated and discharged,” Marando said.
The Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) later announced the arrest of three additional suspects after tracing forensic leads on the outskirts of Laare. Authorities are also handling a separate past incident captured in a video circulating online, allegedly involving different perpetrators within the same region.
Marando said investigators are working to identify the victim in the Laare assault and establish whether the earlier incident also occurred in the area. “We have been informed of another past incident, which is not related to the Monday morning crime… investigators are following leads because it was never reported,” he noted.
Leaders from Meru County condemned the attack, calling for stronger enforcement and community vigilance. Meru Woman Representative Karambu Kailemia urged police to intensify investigations and apprehend all individuals involved. “I condemn that evil act and ask our law enforcement teams to continue being vigilant… Arrest and arraign the suspects. We should also ensure the survivor is attended to,” she said.
Residents from Maua and Laare held processions demanding accountability and stronger protections for women and girls.
Meru County continues to struggle with high SGBV rates, currently standing at 16pc, according to national data. Past cases have included technology-facilitated assaults and mob harassment, raising concerns about entrenched patterns of violence and impunity.
KEWOPA reaffirmed its commitment to pushing for justice reforms, survivor protection, and stronger institutional responses — especially during the 16 Days of Activism against Gender-Based Violence.
“The violence witnessed in Laare is a stark reminder of the work ahead. We will not relent until every woman and girl in Kenya is safe,” the association said.
